Memory stays strong in old age when this brain enzyme is active

The enzyme PLA2G2F, a phospholipase identified in mouse hippocampus screening, supports cognitive resilience in ageing. Mice lacking the gene showed surging inflammation, neuron degradation and lower spatial-memory scores, while mice with excess Pla2g2f had less inflammation, better-connected neurons and higher memory scores with age. In human donor brains, PLA2G2F activity rose with age and was highest in resilient individuals whose cognition remained intact despite amyloid-beta deposits.